essay about subjective definition

Subjective vs. Objective Essay: Examples, Writing Guides, & Topics

Subjective or objective essay writing is a common task students have to deal with. On the initial stage of completing the assignment, you should learn how to differentiate these two types of papers. Their goals, methods, as well as language, tone, and voice, are different.

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A subjective essay focuses on the writer’s personal opinion, while an objective one represents valid facts. So, be careful when composing an objective paragraph or paper. Don’t let your beliefs take over real arguments supported by substantial evidence.

In short, differences between these styles concern the following:

• The ground for objective essays is facts; for subjective essays – personal opinions and beliefs.
• Objective papers report the findings from scientific sources, while subjective ones describe the writer’s thoughts.
• The objective essay’s goal is to help the reader make a decision. Subjective writing aims to reflect the author’s vision of the issue.

So, if you face this task for the first time, you may need some explanations. Custom-writing.org experts prepared a list of tips on how to write objective and subjective essays. Some topics, as well as objective and subjective writing examples, will also be useful.

• 🆚 Subjective vs. Objective

🔗 References

🆚 subjective vs. objective essays.

First and foremost, let’s find out the critical differences between the writing styles. Take a look at the following table and shed light on this issue.

An objective essay is a presentation of the material with no independent opinion involved. Only facts matter in this paper, and only facts can back up some assertions. Writing subjective essays implies introducing your standpoint on a particular problem.

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📋 How to Write an Objective Essay

Writing any essay consists of three parts: preparation, the actual writing, and revision. During the first one, you need to decide on your topic and do a little research. You can see how it looks in a real example.

Objective Essay Example: The Portrayal of Odysseus

In Odyssey, Homer portrays Odysseus, the king of Ithaca, as the true epic hero. The depiction of Odysseus is thoughtfully knitted together with the themes of love and loyalty that further magnify it, painting a holistic picture of a long 10-year journey home. Although it can be argued that some of Odysseus’s personality traits he displays cannot be applied to a true hero, he is still depicted following a very specific heroic archetype.

Now, let’s get into more detail!

Objective Essay Topics

If you’ve decided to write an objective essay, you need to come up with a topic. The topic gives a reader a brief overview of what will be covered in the paper.

Here are ten great examples:

• While the differences between Italy and Spain are evident, the resemblances are striking.
• There are several similarities between the movies “Deep Impact” and “Armageddon.”
• Compare and contrast the capitals of two English-speaking countries.
• Somatic symptoms in people with PTSD can be influenced by age, gender, and avoidance.
• Some might argue, but being overweight carries a social stigma.
• Environmental factors contribute to the phenotypic expression of psychological disorders.
• Although the exact reason remains unclear, depression is affected by sex, gender, hormonal changes, and age.
• When comparing and contrasting the Bible and Quran, it seems that they have more similarities than differences.
• Musical ability is the result of influence on the person from outside.
• In comparison to extroverts, introverts draw power from within themselves to use it in future activities.

Objective Essay Structure

We shall continue with exploring an essay structure. Note that the parts described below are essential for any essay.

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• Introduction . The introduction is usually the part that broadly describes the topic and gets the interest of the reader. This part of the paper should cover some background information and present the purpose.
• Hypothesis . In case your essay has one, state it in your introduction. A hypothesis includes information about how you intend to prove or refute the claim. It briefly describes the way you intend to do so.
• Arguments . Present one side of the argument. In the next paragraph, present the opposing one, using such words as “however,” “nevertheless,” and “although.” The task is to provide the readers with two sides of the argument.
• Evidence . Provide the evidence for all of your points. Keep the balance in providing proof and refutal. Omit your personal opinion, rather than include the evidence you find informative and convincing.
• Conclusion . Summarize the arguments both for and against the position. While remaining objective, shortly go over the information you presented as evidence. If the instructions require a personal opinion, in conclusion, you might write one. In other cases, briefly recap the parts of the essay. Shorten sentence generator would be greatly beneficial in such endeavor.

📜 How to Write a Subjective Essay

As we’ve mentioned earlier, a subjective essay represents the author’s vision of a particular issue. You have an opportunity to introduce your point of view without supporting your ideas with evidence from the primary sources. However, make sure your arguments are still logical and adequate.

Now see how to write a subjective essay in the sections below.

Subjective Writing Example

A well-chosen topic is the vital determinant of a successful essay. Yet, the process of selecting an idea for your paper might be challenging. That’s why you may find our example helpful.

The rapid pace of development of modern technologies increases the demand for oil and gas every year. A considerable amount of these resources is necessary to maintain both industrial enterprises and private equipment. Despite active production, there are still many unexplored places on Earth, potentially rich in oil and gas deposits. However, while making them public would help solve the existing problem, I’m afraid I disagree with this proposal.

Subjective Essay Topics

Check our list of subjective essay topics, choose the one you like the most, or inspire and come up with your idea!

• The fake and too glamorous life presented in social media leads to the development of an inferiority complex among teenagers.
• The information flows within the country should not be controlled by the governments.
• Since developed nations provoked the climate crisis, they should take full responsibility for their past actions and reduce carbon emissions in the atmosphere.
• Cyberbullying should be a matter of the same importance as physical abuse.
• Remote learning opens more opportunities and expands the students’ horizons.
• Instead of catching up with fashion trends, it is better to develop your unique style.
• People should have enough rest to reduce the levels of anxiety and decrease the chances of depression.
• Studying abroad is an experience worth trying.
• Planning and scheduling are perfect strategies to deal with procrastination.
• While applying for a job position, work experience is more significant than having a degree.

📝 Subjective Essay Structure

When you deal with this task, you have full freedom of choice. You can decide for yourself what idea to support and what arguments to present. Still, you have to structure even a subjective essay properly.

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Here are the elements you have to include in your paper:

• grab the readers’ attention;
• introduce your subject;
• state your position in the thesis statement.

Important note: your thesis should be clear and straightforward. Let your audience understand your opinion.

• Description . Dive deeper into your topic and describe your issue in detail. However, don’t go too far. Avoid including irrelevant facts and unnecessary information. Follow the principle “quality over quantity” to keep your reader engaged.
• Opinion . After describing your issue, move to the most crucial part of your essay—opinion. State it clearly and concisely. Although you don’t need to provide any evidence from scholarly sources, your ideas should be supported by substantial arguments or examples from your personal life.
• Conclusion . In the last paragraph of your subjective essay, restate your thesis statement. Don’t introduce any other ideas here. To make your paper more dynamic, ask a provocative question at the end. It may motivate your reader for further investigation of your subject.

A helpful tip:

Before submitting your work, make sure it is coherent. Check if all of your ideas follow the logical flow. To avoid redundancy and wordiness, mix shorter sentences with longer ones and apply transitional phrases. Polish your essay, turn it in, and wait for your perfect grade.

Thanks for reading the page! Share it with your peers who may need some guidance as well. Our writers are ready to explain any other essay type , not only objective or subjective ones.

Learn more on this topic:

• How to Write an Expository Essay in Simple Steps
• Nursing Reflective Essay Example and Guidelines for Students
• Essay on Dengue Fever: How to Write + Free Examples
• French Essay Writing: How-to Guide and Examples
• How to Write a Rebuttal Essay: Jackie Michael, Pen and the Pad
• Writing Objectively: OWLL, Massey University
• Subjective vs Objective: Difference and Comparison, Diffen
• Objective and Subjective Claims: TIP Sheet, Butte College
• Evidence: The Writing Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
• Organizing Your Argument: Purdue Online Writing Lab, College of Liberal Arts, University of Purdue
• Argumentative Paper Format: Courtesy the Odegaard Writing & Research Center, University of Washington
• How Do I Write an Intro, Conclusion, & Body Paragraph: LSA Sweetland Center for Writing, the University of Michigan
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Subjective and reflective.

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Subjective vs. Objective: What's the Difference?

Hannah Yang

If you’re trying to write a strong essay or story, it’s often important to understand the difference between subjective and objective truth.

What exactly do the words subjective and objective mean, and when should you use each?

This article will explain the difference between the two words, provide examples of how they’re used in a sentence, and discuss whether you should look for objective or subjective information to support your own writing.

• What’s the Difference Between Subjective vs. Objective?

How Would You Use Objective and Subjective in a Sentence?

What are some examples of objective statements, what are some examples of subjective information, how can you tell if something is objective or subjective, what is an objective opinion, are impartial facts better than personal feelings, what’s the difference between subjective vs. objective .

The difference between objective and subjective is related to the difference between facts and opinions.

The word objective describes information that’s based on verifiable facts. Objective truth can be verified by a third party, regardless of who the third party is.

For example, the sentence “The temperature outside is around 10°C” is an objective statement, because that statement will be equally true no matter who says it. Anybody in the world with a working thermometer could verify this statement.

The word subjective is the exact opposite; it describes information that’s based on personal opinion or personal interpretation.

Subjective truth might be different for different people, depending on their own tastes, preferences, or experiences.

The sentence “It’s very cold outside” is a subjective statement, because how true this sentence is depends on personal opinions and experiences.

Many temperatures would feel very cold to someone who grew up in Arizona, but comfortably warm to someone who grew up in Alaska.

One easy way to remember the difference between the two words is to remember that “objective” sounds like “object.”

Objective facts are as concrete as the objects you can touch, like your desk, your bike, or your water bottle.

Subjective facts, on the other hand, pertain to more abstract concepts, like beauty, joy, or discomfort.

Here’s an example of a sentence that uses both objective and subjective in context:

"But now we, as pathologists, need more objective measures because symptoms, to a certain degree, are subjective ." (Time)

This sentence, a quote from a pathologist, argues that symptoms of diseases are somewhat subjective because they differ from person to person.

One patient with the flu might feel horribly nauseous, while another patient with the same flu might feel only a mild cough.

As a result, it’s useful for doctors to have objective tools to determine how ill people are, which don’t have results that vary from person to person.

That way, they can track the way a disease spreads even if not all patients feel the same symptoms.

Let’s look at another example.

"We take our unruly, subjective feelings about a year of television and groom them into something that looks mathematical and objective ." (Slate)

This sentence, a quote from a TV critic, argues that trying to rank TV shows is a meaningless task.

Every viewer has different tastes; some might love lighthearted sitcoms, while others prefer serious dramas.

There’s no objective way for a TV critic to determine a Top 10 list that applies to everybody, because everyone’s tastes and enjoyment levels are inherently subjective.

If what you’re writing can be proven or disproven by evidence, it’s an objective statement. Likewise, if you include a reference to an study or an experiment, it is an objective statement.

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Here are some examples of objective information:

• The largest freshwater fish ever caught was 646 pounds. (Cite- Brittanica)
• Abraham Lincoln was the sixteenth president of the United States.
• The World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a pandemic on March 11, 2020.
• I have eaten the plums that were in the icebox.

Keep in mind that those statements would still be considered objective even if they were false.

It’s a common mistake to assume that “objective” is synonymous with “true,” but lies can be objective statements, too. The statement remains objective as long as it doesn’t depend on feelings or opinions.

For example, if William Carlos Williams had written “I didn’t eat any of the plums that were in the icebox,” even though he actually did, that would still qualify as an objective statement.

Here are some examples of false objective statements:

• Abraham Lincoln was the first president of the United States.
• The World Health Organization has never issued an official statement about COVID-19.
• I didn’t eat any of the plums that were in the icebox.

If a statement relies on personal feelings or beliefs, it’s likely to be subjective.

Here are some examples of subjective statements:

• It feels very warm outside.
• Dogs are better than cats.
• The plums in the icebox tasted delicious.

Watch out for subjective information that’s disguised as objective analysis. For example, a newspaper headline that says “New Study Shows That Dogs Are 85% Better Than Cats” sounds like an objective fact. However, because it depends on personal preferences and opinions, it’s still a subjective statement.

Here are some subjective statements that are disguised to sound like objective statements:

• It is objectively very warm outside.
• A new study shows that dogs are 85% better than cats.
• Plums in iceboxes taste ten times better than plums that are left in the heat.

If you’re not sure whether a statement is objective or subjective, here are some useful questions you can ask yourself.

To determine whether a statement is objective , ask:

• Is this statement based on factual evidence?
• Is there a way a scientist could test this statement to figure out if it’s true or false?
• Would a robot without any concept of human emotion be able to say this statement?

If the answers to any of the above questions are “yes,” you’re probably dealing with an objective statement.

To determine whether a statement is subjective , ask:

• Is this statement based on someone’s feelings, preferences, or personal tastes?
• Is it impossible to determine whether this statement is true or false?
• Does this statement make a judgement about something (e.g. good or bad, right or wrong, beautiful or ugly)?

If the answers to any of the above questions are “yes,” you’re probably dealing with a subjective statement.

You can also look at the source of the statement to help you figure out how objective it is.

Sources like peer-reviewed scientific articles and unbiased news articles tend to contain more objective material.

Sources like opinion pieces and creative non-fiction tend to contain more subjective material.

The phrase "objective opinion" might seem counterintuitive, since these two words are essentially opposites.

In this context, the word "objective" means unbiased and impartial, rather than factual. This is also true for the phrase "objective assessment."

For example, you might ask a friend for an objective opinion about whether or not you should break up with your boyfriend.

In this scenario, your friend can’t give you objective advice if they have a personal reason for wanting you to make this decision, such as if they’re secretly in love with your boyfriend too.

Whether you should use subjective or objective statements depends on what your goal is.

If you’re writing a persuasive essay, you’ll usually need factual or quantitative data to make your writing credible. It’s important to search for objective facts from a reliable and impartial source.

On the other hand, you can also make use of subjective evidence, such as personal anecdotes. If you’re writing a persuasive essay about why bullying is wrong, a heartfelt story from the perspective of someone who’s been bullied might touch more readers than impersonal facts.

Most strong essays make use of both subjective and objective truth.

Final Words on the Difference Between Subjective vs. Objective

There you have it: a comprehensive guide to the difference between subjective and objective statements. Which examples did you find most helpful? Let us know in the comments.

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Hannah Yang is a speculative fiction writer who writes about all things strange and surreal. Her work has appeared in Analog Science Fiction, Apex Magazine, The Dark, and elsewhere, and two of her stories have been finalists for the Locus Award. Her favorite hobbies include watercolor painting, playing guitar, and rock climbing. You can follow her work on hannahyang.com, or subscribe to her newsletter for publication updates.

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What Is a Subjective Essay?

Ashley walton, 26 sep 2017.

A subjective essay includes your personal perspective and opinion, without the need to seem objective or base your essay on research. Many subjective essays are descriptive, meaning they describe how something looks or feels. These can include essays on lifestyles, backgrounds or attitudes. Other subjective essays take the form of opinion editorials, which try to convince the reader of a particular point of view. Whatever the purpose, good subjective essays have several elements in common.

Explore this article

• Description

1 Description

A good subjective essay will incorporate vivid descriptions. Pepper your writing with figurative language, such as simile, imagery or personification, to make it interesting.

Similes compare one thing to another using “like” or “as.” An example is “You’re as beautiful as a summer day.” Imagery means using visual language to describe something, including sensory perceptions. Personification is giving abstract human qualities to inanimate objects. An example is when Keats says a Grecian urn is “a sylvan historian.” Descriptive language will pull in your readers and help them empathize with your essay’s points.

In contrast to an objective essay, a subjective essay should brim with opinion. Instead of trying to remain an objective outsider, you should include your personal opinion, experiences and reasons. An opinion editorial is a common type of subjective essay, wherein you try to convince the reader of your point of view, whether you are reviewing the latest film or explaining why you think the legal drinking age should be changed. Opinion editorials often discuss political, community and local issues that directly affect you as a citizen.

A subjective essay should highlight your voice and tone. With many academic papers, such as a rhetorical essay or a research paper, you want to keep a neutral and formal tone. In contrast, with a subjective essay, you want your personality to shine through in your writing. Don’t be afraid to share personal anecdotes or use more conversational language than you would in a research paper. Your voice can be a valuable asset, endearing yourself to the reader and making your essay interesting to read.

The secret to any good essay is cohesion, or a good flow. You want your essay to make logical sense as it flows from sentence to sentence and paragraph to paragraph. Use topic sentences introducing the point of each paragraph, and use transition phrases between sentences to transition from idea to idea. Just because a subjective essay is less stylistically strict than other types of academic papers does not mean it should lack substance. Your overall paper should have a point that it’s trying to prove, and each paragraph should work to prove that point.

• 1 Hunter College Reading/Writing Center: The Writing Process: Rhetorical Strategies: Description
• 2 Dr. Wheeler’s: Literary Terms
• 3 Grammar Guide: Tone: A Matter of Attitude
• 4 Purdue Online Writing Lab: Revising for Cohesion
• 5 Academia.edu: Elements of an Effective Essay; Dustin Morrow

About the Author

Ashley Walton holds a master's degree in English and has taught various courses at Brigham Young University, including rhetoric in new media and transatlantic literature. She has worked as an online copywriter for the last five years, and has eight years of copy editing experience.

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Definition of Subjective

A subjective point of view is something based on one’s opinions, perspectives, beliefs, discoveries, desires, and feelings. It has no concern with right or wrong, other than the person’s opinion of what is right and wrong. Likewise, subjective writing or point of view is based on the writer’s own observation and experience. It focuses on the writer’s personal point of view and not built on facts that others see or things others go through.

Third person point of view can also be subjective. It is known as “limited omniscience,” in which a writer knows every detail about a character and sees the whole story through that character ’s eyes.

Difference between Subjective and Objective

The major difference between subjective and objective is that subjective information is based on just one person’s feelings, assumptions, and opinions. It has a viewpoint of that person regardless of information or arguments it offers. Objective, on the other hand, is the information a writer or speaker provides outside of his/her personal opinions or feelings. It is based on facts.

Examples of Subjective in Literature

Example #1: harry potter and the chamber of secrets (by j. k. rowling).

“Harry had taken up his place at wizard school, where he and his scar were famous … but now the school year was over, and he was back with the Dursleys for the summer, back to being treated like a dog that had rolled in something smelly. The Dursleys hadn’t even remembered that today happened to be Harry’s twelfth birthday …”

In this passage, readers can see how Harry is feeling, thinking, and what is happening with him. They follow him very closely, but are unable to see what the Dursleys are feeling or thinking about Harry. This is a depiction of subjective feelings.

Example #2: Ode on a Grecian Urn (by John Keats)

“Heard melodies are sweet, but those unheard Are sweeter; therefore, ye soft pipes, play on… Pipe to the spirit ditties of no tone : Fair youth, beneath the trees, thou canst not leave Thy song, nor ever can those trees be bare;”

This excerpt is a very good example of a subjective approach. Here, the speaker is expressing his feelings of love for the old days of Ancient Greece, as displayed through pictures on a marble pot. In this stanza , he is talking about a musician, playing pipes beautifully. He escapes from physical world to his world of fantasy , where weather never changes and there is an eternal spring.

Example #3: Sonnet 18 (by William Shakespeare)

“Shall I compare thee to a summer’s day? Thou art more lovely and more temperate: Rough winds do shake the darling buds of May…. But thy eternal summer shall not fade… So long as men can breathe or eyes can see, So long lives this, and this gives life to thee.”

In these lines, the speaker expresses his opinion about his beloved, who is lovelier than the summer’s day. All the elements such as admiration and comparisons are subjective because standards of beauty for one person may not be the same for others.

Example #4: O Captain! My Captain! (by Walt Whitman)

“O Captain! my Captain! our fearful trip is done, The ship has weather’d every rack, the prize we sought is won… But O heart! heart! heart! O the bleeding drops of red, Where on the deck my Captain lies, Fallen cold and dead. O Captain! my Captain! rise up and hear the bells…”

In this poem , the speaker is a sailor. He sings this song for the captain who leads his ship and crew safely into harbor after a dangerous long voyage. However, the captain dies in the end, and the speaker is in a somber and intense mood of sadness. This is also an excellent example of a subjective mood .

Example #5: She Walks in Beauty (by George Gordon, Lord Byron)

“She walks in beauty, like the night Of cloudless climes and starry skies; And all that’s best of dark and bright Meet in her aspect and her eyes: Thus mellowed to that tender light Which heaven to gaudy day denies.”

In this stanza , the speaker is a poet himself who praises an anonymous woman. Comparing her beauty to night on the sky filled with stars. He expresses his feelings by comparing her to light and dark that she is a combination of both. This is purely a subjective approach of expression.

Function of Subjective

Subjective approach or presentation or view point is useful and allows the readers to get an insight into the mind of a writer through interpretations and explication of his characters, thoughts, opinions and beliefs. Subjective writing or point of view builds tension and provides a greater freedom to readers to interpret actions of individual characters. This approach givens a view that every person sees a thing from different perspective .

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Definition of subjective

 (Entry 1 of 2)

Definition of subjective  (Entry 2 of 2)

• individualized
• personalized

Examples of subjective in a Sentence

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'subjective.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

see subject entry 1

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

1817, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing subjective

subjective complement

Dictionary Entries Near subjective

subjectional

Cite this Entry

“Subjective.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/subjective. Accessed 10 Apr. 2024.

Kids Definition

Kids definition of subjective, medical definition, medical definition of subjective, more from merriam-webster on subjective.

Nglish: Translation of subjective for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of subjective for Arabic Speakers

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• The four main types of essay | Quick guide with examples

The Four Main Types of Essay | Quick Guide with Examples

Published on September 4, 2020 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on July 23, 2023.

An essay is a focused piece of writing designed to inform or persuade. There are many different types of essay, but they are often defined in four categories: argumentative, expository, narrative, and descriptive essays.

Argumentative and expository essays are focused on conveying information and making clear points, while narrative and descriptive essays are about exercising creativity and writing in an interesting way. At university level, argumentative essays are the most common type. 

In high school and college, you will also often have to write textual analysis essays, which test your skills in close reading and interpretation.

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Table of contents

Argumentative essays, expository essays, narrative essays, descriptive essays, textual analysis essays, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about types of essays.

An argumentative essay presents an extended, evidence-based argument. It requires a strong thesis statement —a clearly defined stance on your topic. Your aim is to convince the reader of your thesis using evidence (such as quotations ) and analysis.

Argumentative essays test your ability to research and present your own position on a topic. This is the most common type of essay at college level—most papers you write will involve some kind of argumentation.

The essay is divided into an introduction, body, and conclusion:

• The introduction provides your topic and thesis statement
• The body presents your evidence and arguments
• The conclusion summarizes your argument and emphasizes its importance

The example below is a paragraph from the body of an argumentative essay about the effects of the internet on education. Mouse over it to learn more.

A common frustration for teachers is students’ use of Wikipedia as a source in their writing. Its prevalence among students is not exaggerated; a survey found that the vast majority of the students surveyed used Wikipedia (Head & Eisenberg, 2010). An article in The Guardian stresses a common objection to its use: “a reliance on Wikipedia can discourage students from engaging with genuine academic writing” (Coomer, 2013). Teachers are clearly not mistaken in viewing Wikipedia usage as ubiquitous among their students; but the claim that it discourages engagement with academic sources requires further investigation. This point is treated as self-evident by many teachers, but Wikipedia itself explicitly encourages students to look into other sources. Its articles often provide references to academic publications and include warning notes where citations are missing; the site’s own guidelines for research make clear that it should be used as a starting point, emphasizing that users should always “read the references and check whether they really do support what the article says” (“Wikipedia:Researching with Wikipedia,” 2020). Indeed, for many students, Wikipedia is their first encounter with the concepts of citation and referencing. The use of Wikipedia therefore has a positive side that merits deeper consideration than it often receives.

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An expository essay provides a clear, focused explanation of a topic. It doesn’t require an original argument, just a balanced and well-organized view of the topic.

Expository essays test your familiarity with a topic and your ability to organize and convey information. They are commonly assigned at high school or in exam questions at college level.

The introduction of an expository essay states your topic and provides some general background, the body presents the details, and the conclusion summarizes the information presented.

A typical body paragraph from an expository essay about the invention of the printing press is shown below. Mouse over it to learn more.

The invention of the printing press in 1440 changed this situation dramatically. Johannes Gutenberg, who had worked as a goldsmith, used his knowledge of metals in the design of the press. He made his type from an alloy of lead, tin, and antimony, whose durability allowed for the reliable production of high-quality books. This new technology allowed texts to be reproduced and disseminated on a much larger scale than was previously possible. The Gutenberg Bible appeared in the 1450s, and a large number of printing presses sprang up across the continent in the following decades. Gutenberg’s invention rapidly transformed cultural production in Europe; among other things, it would lead to the Protestant Reformation.

A narrative essay is one that tells a story. This is usually a story about a personal experience you had, but it may also be an imaginative exploration of something you have not experienced.

Narrative essays test your ability to build up a narrative in an engaging, well-structured way. They are much more personal and creative than other kinds of academic writing . Writing a personal statement for an application requires the same skills as a narrative essay.

A narrative essay isn’t strictly divided into introduction, body, and conclusion, but it should still begin by setting up the narrative and finish by expressing the point of the story—what you learned from your experience, or why it made an impression on you.

Mouse over the example below, a short narrative essay responding to the prompt “Write about an experience where you learned something about yourself,” to explore its structure.

Since elementary school, I have always favored subjects like science and math over the humanities. My instinct was always to think of these subjects as more solid and serious than classes like English. If there was no right answer, I thought, why bother? But recently I had an experience that taught me my academic interests are more flexible than I had thought: I took my first philosophy class.

Before I entered the classroom, I was skeptical. I waited outside with the other students and wondered what exactly philosophy would involve—I really had no idea. I imagined something pretty abstract: long, stilted conversations pondering the meaning of life. But what I got was something quite different.

A young man in jeans, Mr. Jones—“but you can call me Rob”—was far from the white-haired, buttoned-up old man I had half-expected. And rather than pulling us into pedantic arguments about obscure philosophical points, Rob engaged us on our level. To talk free will, we looked at our own choices. To talk ethics, we looked at dilemmas we had faced ourselves. By the end of class, I’d discovered that questions with no right answer can turn out to be the most interesting ones.

The experience has taught me to look at things a little more “philosophically”—and not just because it was a philosophy class! I learned that if I let go of my preconceptions, I can actually get a lot out of subjects I was previously dismissive of. The class taught me—in more ways than one—to look at things with an open mind.

A descriptive essay provides a detailed sensory description of something. Like narrative essays, they allow you to be more creative than most academic writing, but they are more tightly focused than narrative essays. You might describe a specific place or object, rather than telling a whole story.

Descriptive essays test your ability to use language creatively, making striking word choices to convey a memorable picture of what you’re describing.

A descriptive essay can be quite loosely structured, though it should usually begin by introducing the object of your description and end by drawing an overall picture of it. The important thing is to use careful word choices and figurative language to create an original description of your object.

Mouse over the example below, a response to the prompt “Describe a place you love to spend time in,” to learn more about descriptive essays.

On Sunday afternoons I like to spend my time in the garden behind my house. The garden is narrow but long, a corridor of green extending from the back of the house, and I sit on a lawn chair at the far end to read and relax. I am in my small peaceful paradise: the shade of the tree, the feel of the grass on my feet, the gentle activity of the fish in the pond beside me.

My cat crosses the garden nimbly and leaps onto the fence to survey it from above. From his perch he can watch over his little kingdom and keep an eye on the neighbours. He does this until the barking of next door’s dog scares him from his post and he bolts for the cat flap to govern from the safety of the kitchen.

With that, I am left alone with the fish, whose whole world is the pond by my feet. The fish explore the pond every day as if for the first time, prodding and inspecting every stone. I sometimes feel the same about sitting here in the garden; I know the place better than anyone, but whenever I return I still feel compelled to pay attention to all its details and novelties—a new bird perched in the tree, the growth of the grass, and the movement of the insects it shelters…

Sitting out in the garden, I feel serene. I feel at home. And yet I always feel there is more to discover. The bounds of my garden may be small, but there is a whole world contained within it, and it is one I will never get tired of inhabiting.

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Though every essay type tests your writing skills, some essays also test your ability to read carefully and critically. In a textual analysis essay, you don’t just present information on a topic, but closely analyze a text to explain how it achieves certain effects.

Rhetorical analysis

A rhetorical analysis looks at a persuasive text (e.g. a speech, an essay, a political cartoon) in terms of the rhetorical devices it uses, and evaluates their effectiveness.

The goal is not to state whether you agree with the author’s argument but to look at how they have constructed it.

The introduction of a rhetorical analysis presents the text, some background information, and your thesis statement; the body comprises the analysis itself; and the conclusion wraps up your analysis of the text, emphasizing its relevance to broader concerns.

The example below is from a rhetorical analysis of Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech . Mouse over it to learn more.

King’s speech is infused with prophetic language throughout. Even before the famous “dream” part of the speech, King’s language consistently strikes a prophetic tone. He refers to the Lincoln Memorial as a “hallowed spot” and speaks of rising “from the dark and desolate valley of segregation” to “make justice a reality for all of God’s children.” The assumption of this prophetic voice constitutes the text’s strongest ethical appeal; after linking himself with political figures like Lincoln and the Founding Fathers, King’s ethos adopts a distinctly religious tone, recalling Biblical prophets and preachers of change from across history. This adds significant force to his words; standing before an audience of hundreds of thousands, he states not just what the future should be, but what it will be: “The whirlwinds of revolt will continue to shake the foundations of our nation until the bright day of justice emerges.” This warning is almost apocalyptic in tone, though it concludes with the positive image of the “bright day of justice.” The power of King’s rhetoric thus stems not only from the pathos of his vision of a brighter future, but from the ethos of the prophetic voice he adopts in expressing this vision.

Literary analysis

A literary analysis essay presents a close reading of a work of literature—e.g. a poem or novel—to explore the choices made by the author and how they help to convey the text’s theme. It is not simply a book report or a review, but an in-depth interpretation of the text.

Literary analysis looks at things like setting, characters, themes, and figurative language. The goal is to closely analyze what the author conveys and how.

The introduction of a literary analysis essay presents the text and background, and provides your thesis statement; the body consists of close readings of the text with quotations and analysis in support of your argument; and the conclusion emphasizes what your approach tells us about the text.

Mouse over the example below, the introduction to a literary analysis essay on Frankenstein , to learn more.

Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein is often read as a crude cautionary tale about the dangers of scientific advancement unrestrained by ethical considerations. In this reading, protagonist Victor Frankenstein is a stable representation of the callous ambition of modern science throughout the novel. This essay, however, argues that far from providing a stable image of the character, Shelley uses shifting narrative perspectives to portray Frankenstein in an increasingly negative light as the novel goes on. While he initially appears to be a naive but sympathetic idealist, after the creature’s narrative Frankenstein begins to resemble—even in his own telling—the thoughtlessly cruel figure the creature represents him as. This essay begins by exploring the positive portrayal of Frankenstein in the first volume, then moves on to the creature’s perception of him, and finally discusses the third volume’s narrative shift toward viewing Frankenstein as the creature views him.

If you want to know more about AI tools , college essays , or fallacies make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples or go directly to our tools!

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At high school and in composition classes at university, you’ll often be told to write a specific type of essay , but you might also just be given prompts.

Look for keywords in these prompts that suggest a certain approach: The word “explain” suggests you should write an expository essay , while the word “describe” implies a descriptive essay . An argumentative essay might be prompted with the word “assess” or “argue.”

The vast majority of essays written at university are some sort of argumentative essay . Almost all academic writing involves building up an argument, though other types of essay might be assigned in composition classes.

Essays can present arguments about all kinds of different topics. For example:

• In a literary analysis essay, you might make an argument for a specific interpretation of a text
• In a history essay, you might present an argument for the importance of a particular event
• In a politics essay, you might argue for the validity of a certain political theory

An argumentative essay tends to be a longer essay involving independent research, and aims to make an original argument about a topic. Its thesis statement makes a contentious claim that must be supported in an objective, evidence-based way.

An expository essay also aims to be objective, but it doesn’t have to make an original argument. Rather, it aims to explain something (e.g., a process or idea) in a clear, concise way. Expository essays are often shorter assignments and rely less on research.

The key difference is that a narrative essay is designed to tell a complete story, while a descriptive essay is meant to convey an intense description of a particular place, object, or concept.

Narrative and descriptive essays both allow you to write more personally and creatively than other kinds of essays , and similar writing skills can apply to both.

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What is Subjective? Definition, Usage, and Literary Examples

Subjective definition.

Subjective (suhb-JEK-tiv) is an adjective that describes something that’s based on a person’s opinions, individual experiences, and biased influences instead of facts. Literary criticism and interpretations are subjective because they reflect the critic’s opinion of a work rather than the author’s intent. Other subjective works include opinion editorials, reviews, literary interpretations, and subjective narrative literature.

When the word first appeared in the 1500s, Late Latin speakers used it to describe a person who is submissive, but subjective came to mean “existing in the mind” by 1707. By 1767, subjective described something that was “personal” and “individual,” much like the modern use of the word.

Subjective Narration

Subjective narration in literature describes a story that has a narrator with a limited, subjective perspective . The reader experiences the story through the narrator’s point of view (often a character participating in the story). As a result, the reader’s understanding is based more on the narrator’s experiences and opinions than the larger world of the story.

Unreliable Narrators

Subjective narration can sometimes mean narrators in literature aren’t reliable. Unreliable narrators are characters who might not tell the story accurately due to their own biases, experiences, or incomprehension. Winston Groom’s Forrest Gump , for example, relates fantastical events from history that cause the reader to question Forrest’s grasp on reality. Conversely, an omniscient narrator relates several characters’ perspectives as well as the larger world of the story, making their narration more objective.

Discerning Subjective Language

Subjective language doesn’t rely on factual evidence and is more concerned with personal thoughts, beliefs, feelings, and perspectives. You can identify subjective language by finding opinion-based verbiage, like adjectives (for example, beautiful , perfect , repulsive ); considering whether anyone could question the factuality of the statement; and questioning whether evidence substantiates the claim.

Unlike subjective language, objective language is factual and not influenced by a person’s individual opinions or experiences. For example, a juror must be objective and have no knowledge or preconceived biases before participating in a trial. Conversely, a subjective juror who already has opinions on the defendant’s guilt might then unfairly engage in the trial based on their personal views.

Take these two statements about a woman’s hair. One person says, “She has the most beautiful hair,” while another says, “She has red hair.” The first statement is subjective, as others might not agree with this quality assessment of the hair in question. The second statement is objective because one could easily substantiate whether the woman being discussed has red hair.

Literary Criticism and Subjectivity

Literary criticism is the analysis of a piece of literature that assesses the piece’s style , themes, and contexts . Though critics support their analysis with evidence from the piece, criticisms are subjective because the critic’s interpretation comes from their own biases, opinions, and experiences.

On the other hand, points of analysis that come directly from the piece’s author are objective. For example, Harper Lee once said in an interview that she wished to be the chronicler of “small town, middle-class southern life,” and this attempt appears in her novel, To Kill a Mockingbird ; this is an objective fact. Many critics believe that the mockingbird represents innocence, though Lee never outright stated that it does; this is a subjective opinion.

Examples of Subjectivity in Literature

1. Jenny Han, P.S. I Still Love You

In this young adult novel, protagonist Lara Jean is narrating the novel from her first-person, subjective perspective, so she isn’t aware of the thoughts of other characters and questions their motives:

I don’t understand what’s the matter with Josh. He acted like he was so in love with her; he practically went into a depression when she was gone. And now this?

2. Winston Groom, Forrest Gump

Groom portrays the titular character as having a low IQ. Forrest’s first-person perspective is perhaps unreliable because of both his mental capacity and his fantastical retelling of events:

Let me say this. Being an idiot is no box of chocolates.

3. Mitch Albom, Tuesdays with Morrie

Tuesdays with Morrie is a nonfiction memoir that offers the subjective opinions of Morrie and his philosophical student of sorts, Mitch. This excerpt shows Morrie’s personal feelings about the working culture:

The culture we have does not make people feel good about themselves. And you have to be strong enough to say if the culture doesn’t work, don’t buy it.

Further Resources on Subjectivity

The NROC Project website offers a detailed comparison of objective and subjective language and suggests ways of identifying subjective language.

You can learn more about spotting unreliable narrators in literature from the Living Handbook of Narratology .

Prospect Magazine has an article on the subjectivity of literary judgments.

Related Terms

• Unreliable Narrator

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existing in the mind; belonging to the thinking subject rather than to the object of thought (opposed to objective ).

pertaining to or characteristic of an individual; personal ; individual : a subjective evaluation.

placing excessive emphasis on one's own moods, attitudes, opinions, etc.; unduly egocentric.

Philosophy . relating to or of the nature of an object as it is known in the mind as distinct from a thing in itself.

relating to properties or specific conditions of the mind as distinguished from general or universal experience.

pertaining to the subject or substance in which attributes inhere; essential.

pertaining to or constituting the subject of a sentence.

(in English and certain other languages) noting a case specialized for that use, as He in He hit the ball.

similar to such a case in meaning. : Compare nominative .

Obsolete . characteristic of a political subject; submissive.

Origin of subjective

Other words for subjective, other words from subjective.

• sub·jec·tive·ly, adverb
• sub·jec·tive·ness, noun
• non·sub·jec·tive, adjective
• non·sub·jec·tive·ness, noun
• qua·si-sub·jec·tive, adjective
• un·sub·jec·tive, adjective

Words Nearby subjective

• subject catalogue
• subject complement
• subjective complement
• subjective idealism
• subjective intension
• subjectively
• subjective spirit

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2024

How to use subjective in a sentence

Moreover, we don’t generally take these facts to be mere records of our subjective preferences or of cultural norms.

These algorithms may seem mathematical and objective, but Woolley says the system is “incredibly subjective ,” with many human decisions behind how and why particular content gets recommended.

There is still almost no scientific understanding of how the “boops” of electrochemical pulses in the brain become the subjective experience of thinking, feeling, or remembering.

However, judging the quality of writing is highly subjective .

Of course, measuring emotions is highly complex, and given how subjective and multifaceted they are, quantitative measurements will never entirely displace the qualitative element of evaluating and describing what we’re thinking and feeling.

For one thing, the subjective /objective distinction is fundamental to Western notions of scholarship, and science itself.

The whole goal is to create an effective experience of fear, which is subjective .

Unless you can find good criticism, which is hard to do, because you get too subjective .

The subjective and unverifiable nature of pain is one of the most challenging aspects of managing it.

These results, of course, are subjective and totally unscientific.

They were not pretenders and quacks; they were sceptics who denied subjective truths, and labored for outward advantage.

He did not deny to ideas a subjective existence, but he did deny that they have an objective existence.

Let us put aside for a moment planetary and sidereal visions, which appear more subjective than objective.

So far as we can learn, the benefit was entirely in the subjective symptoms of the patient.

Mr. Melchers attacks whatever suits his particular mood, and his art is not suggestive of a subjective temperament.

British Dictionary definitions for subjective

/ ( səbˈdʒɛktɪv ) /

belonging to, proceeding from, or relating to the mind of the thinking subject and not the nature of the object being considered

of, relating to, or emanating from a person's emotions, prejudices, etc : subjective views

relating to the inherent nature of a person or thing; essential

existing only as perceived and not as a thing in itself

med (of a symptom, condition, etc) experienced only by the patient and incapable of being recognized or studied by anyone else

grammar denoting a case of nouns and pronouns, esp in languages having only two cases, that identifies the subject of a finite verb and (in formal use in English) is selected for predicate complements, as in It is I : See also nominative (def. 1)

the subjective case

a subjective word or speech element

• Abbreviation: subj
• Compare objective (def. 10)

Derived forms of subjective

• subjectively , adverb
• subjectivity or subjectiveness , noun

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

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Swans are a beautiful species of birds. "That's just your opinion ," you might say. You're right, it is my opinion, but that's not all it is—it's also a subjective description ! A subjective description is a particular way to describe something to someone using your unique perspective on the world. 

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Lerne mit deinen Freunden und bleibe auf dem richtigen Kurs mit deinen persönlichen Lernstatistiken

Nie wieder prokastinieren mit unseren Lernerinnerungen.

Swans are a beautiful species of birds. "That's just your opinion ," you might say. You're right, it is my opinion, but that's not all it is—it's also a subjective description ! A subjective description is a particular way to describe something to someone using your unique perspective on the world.

Definition of Subjective Description

A subjective description is the use of opinions to create an image in your mind. What exactly is a description?

A description is the use of words to create an image in your mind.

There are two types of descriptions: subjective and objective. Where an objective description uses fact to create this image, the subjective description uses opinion .

Purpose of Subject Description

The purpose of subjective description is to create an emotional representation of the subject in the reader’s mind. You can use subjective description to align the reader with your ideas.

The prince was pretty.

Let’s pretend that this example comes from a story, and in this story there is no factual description of the prince. His height, his physique, and the way he smiles is a total mystery. Each reader will therefore imagine him as whatever they imagine a pretty prince to be. For the writer, the goal is achieved. In their story, people treat the prince as pretty - and now the reader, regardless of physical preferences, will treat the prince as pretty as well. The story’s narrative and the image created by the reader emotionally align.

When the goal is emotional alignment, subjective description is often a writer’s go-to tool.

The Difference Between Subjective and Objective Description

Most stories you’ll read include a mixture of subjective and objective descriptions. To pinpoint whether a description is objective or descriptive, isolate the descriptions first. Follow the trail of adjectives, concrete nouns, action verbs , metaphors; anything that creates an image in your mind. Then, decide whether the descriptions are based in fact or opinion.

The stained 1987 Amiga computer glowed like sunlight.

"Stained" is a factual description of the computer, so it is an objective description . Although it is vague, the reader’s mental image of “stained” is not highly emotionally dependent.

“1987 Amiga computer” is a concrete noun—something that can be perceived using the five senses—so it is an objective description. It is a real thing, with an actual appearance.

“Glowed like sunlight” is a subjective description because it is an opinion. Objectively, only sunlight glows like sunlight. A 1987 Amiga doesn’t objectively glow like sunlight, or else it would be the sun, and would blind you!

If a description can be verified with a picture, you know it is an objective description. Since you can verify a 1987 Amiga using a picture, you can comfortably identify it as an objective description.

Figurative description: “Glowed like sunlight” is a figurative description in addition to being a subjective description. A figurative description creates an image in the reader’s mind by associating two or more objective sources; in this case, the 1987 Amiga and sunlight. While the two sources of a figurative description are usually objective, the resulting image is always less objective than either of the sources, because a term such as “like” puts the focus on the reader. It is up to the reader to determine how the Amiga glows like sunlight. The mental action of determining an association between two totally different things is a personal analysis, which makes it subjective.

"Glowed like sunlight" is also a simile, which is a form of figurative language that compares two things that are otherwise not similar.

A subjective description is interpreted, whereas an objective description is transcribed. If a description is interpreted by the brain, it is more up to the interpreter what the image looks like.

The ox was strange.

If a description is transcribed by the brain, it is more up to the writer what the image looks like.

The ox had three eyes.

How to Write Subjective Descriptions

Now that you can identify a subjective description, try your hand at writing one. If you can comfortably use subjective descriptions, you will better identify them in passages because you know their ins and outs.

How to Write a Subjective Description in an Essay

In most essays, you will use objective descriptions because essays tend to deal with facts, not opinions. A thesis statement requires evidence to support it, and your opinion is an extremely weak form of evidence. Don’t use subjective description to alter your reader’s opinion. Instead, use subjective description to open your reader up to change by supplying an emotional cue.

Subjective descriptions can be a quick way to engage your reader's emotions or memories, and thereby prime them for your argument .

In most desert regions, the prospect of sustainable agriculture is frightful.

In itself, frightful doesn’t mean anything. What is frightful is subjective, but readers will certainly begin to imagine what frightful might be. Additionally, when readers begin to read the evidence , they will associate that evidence with something frightful.

This example of subjective description would be a good way to introduce a thesis regarding the need to change our approach toward sustainable agriculture in the desert. After all, if the prospect of sustainable agriculture in the desert is “frightful,” it should probably be changed.

The dangers of subjective description : Subjective description has its uses, but always double-check yourself when you employ it in an essay. When writing or reading about politics, recognize that many "facts" come with a bias, and are thus subjective. It is destructive to wield opinions as facts in any arena. Again, if a piece of evidence is highly contentious, it might not be a fact. If in doubt, consider whether the piece of evidence is itself scientific, or if it is a conclusion . A conclusion can be drawn from facts, opinions, and total ignorance, whereas real evidence is found from competent studies.

How to Write a Subjective Description in a Story

You will often encounter subjective descriptions in novels and short stories. As such, you will often see them appear in excerpts on timed tests. Whether you are preparing for such a test, writing a school-related composition, or simply honing your passion for words, you will find that mastering the subjective description is a tremendous asset in the field of the humanities.

When To Use Subjective Description

If your piece of writing is broadly intended to entertain, subjective description is your friend. However, descriptions can be overused even in the richest novels. To determine if you should use a subjective description for your topic, consider:

Have you been describing the facts recently? If in the last few paragraphs you have been stating exactly how things appear, you should consider using a subjective or figurative description for a change of pace.

Would objective description be cumbersome? If stopping to objectively describe the alien mothership gets in the way of the story, use a subjective description instead.

The alien ship appeared like a solar hawk, radiant and divine, with weaponry sharp like talons.

Are details required? Sometimes you might forego a description altogether, if enough has already been said. Don’t repeat yourself, and keep your eye on the action.

Saying nothing at all: This technique of saying nothing at all is commonly employed in the horror genre. A writer may avoid describing a monster’s physical appearance entirely and only recount its actions. This is the ultimate way to create a subjective description for a reader, as anything could be out there doing something scary. The reader perceives their own subjective horror. When a writer limits their descriptions to action verbs , the world becomes alien and psychological. This extreme limit on description is also used in surrealism to create purely mental realities. Without the context of sensory descriptions, characters can appear to exist and act outside the realm of normal space and time.

Accomplishing Your Purpose with Subjective Description

The purpose of subjective description is to create an emotional representation of the subject in the reader’s mind. To do this, consider the emotional aspect of your subject before ever putting pen to paper.

For instance, if you are describing a baseball diamond, you could launch right into objective descriptions of its size and shape, and subjective descriptions about how fun it is to play baseball there. However, what if you really want this scene to communicate your summer nostalgia for baseball diamonds?

In the event you want your scene to strike a certain emotional chord, it is important to know at the start, so that you can tailor your descriptions to put your reader in the correct frame of mind. If you are clear about your emotional purpose, then you can tailor the details to fit it, thereby creating a more complete image of what you intended.

Word Choice and Subjective Description

When creating a subjective description, your word choice is important. Because subjective descriptions are more complex for readers to digest (due to the reader needing to interpret them) it is especially important to use audience-appropriate vocabulary.

Think of it this way. If you describe someone as having an overbite , a reader who doesn’t know the word misses out on a detail. If you describe a smile as refulgent , a reader who doesn’t know the word misses out on context . Because subjective descriptions trade in emotions, if you fail to touch that emotion in your reader, the point of the image fails.

Unless you want to challenge your reader, you would be better served describing a smile as “big and white”, rather than “resplendent”, if your audience isn’t likely to understand that a resplendent smile emotes happiness and beauty.

Examples Of Subjective Description

In each of these examples, the subjective description is underlined.

When she stepped onto the burning hot pitcher’s mound, the dust drifted upward like the smoke of a firework on the 4th Of July.

The violin vibrated sweetly .

Swift as a cloud , my husband arrived at my porch that breezy midday.

The conditions in Mesaville are deplorable .

The matron was not pleasant , rather more like a titanium effigy.

Subjective Description - Key Takeaways

• A subjective description is the use of opinions to create an image in your mind.
• The purpose of subjective description is to create an emotional representation of the subject in the reader’s mind.
• Most stories you’ll read include a mixture of objective and subjective descriptions. To pinpoint whether a description is objective or descriptive, first isolate the descriptions. Then, decide whether the descriptions are based on fact or opinion.
• In most essays, you will use objective descriptions, as essays tend to deal with facts and not opinions.
• You will often encounter subjective descriptions in novels and short stories.

Frequently Asked Questions about Subjective Description

--> what is subjective description in writing.

A subjective description in writing is the use of opinions to create an image in someone's mind.

--> What is the purpose of subjective description?

The purpose of subjective description is to create an emotional representation of the subject in the reader’s mind.

--> How do you write a subjective description?

Consider what emotion you want the reader to feel regarding your subject. Then, write a description that will evoke that emotion in the reader. 

--> Does subjective description use facts and evidence?

No. Subjective description does not use facts or evidence. Objective description uses facts and evidence.

--> When do you use subjective description?

You will often encounter subjectives descriptions in novels and short stories. If your piece of writing is broadly intended to entertain, subjective description is your friend.

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Most stories you'll read include a mixture of _____ and _____ descriptions.

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Objectivity vs. Subjectivity Analytical Essay

Introduction, possibility of being completely objective, importance of intelligence to the intelligence community, objectivity and subjectivity, works cited.

People have the ability to choose between objectivity and subjectivity. Objectivity refers to the ability to judge issues from a personal perspective. Objective thinkers see beyond what other people say. According to Pillar, objectivity is intelligence because it provides room for rational thinking and reasoning beyond the ordinary (par. 2). On the other hand, subjective thinkers merely rely on the reasoning of scholars and experts in various fields.

For instance, the fact that the sun rises from the East and settles in the West is a subjective reason. In essence, it is impossible for people to reason beyond the ordinary. Subjectivism does not incorporate logic or intelligence. This paper intends to discuss the possibility that people could be completely objective in thinking.

Social scientists explain that it is impossible to attain objectivity. People constantly look for knowledge in both primary and secondary sources. Research can never end, and this explains why it is impossible to be completely objective. Individuals will often criticize materials generated by social scientists and this explains how intelligence seeks proof from policies. Seeking intelligence is a natural process that signifies objective reasoning.

It occurs in a cyclic manner and can never come to a possible conclusion. Kahneman and Tversky argued that people would often distort the world due to their overconfidence in explaining things. Most of them do not have solutions to the problem, but through collective efforts and using intelligence, people could find credible answers to various situations (Kahneman 15). In essence, intelligence has no limits.

Objectivity should be a vital trait for the intelligence community since they have to create a connection between different aspects in life. They include crime, politics, education, and culture. The intelligence unit demands complete commitment from objective individuals. In most cases, they could apprehend an innocent person without assessing other possibilities. Intelligence creates a boundary between propaganda, public relations, and sentiments from normal political rallies.

Without objectivity, it would be impossible to assess the intelligence of such experts while in the field (Ehrman et al. 7). The intelligence community comprises of people from different socioeconomic backgrounds. Most of them view ideologies differently, as nature and nurture most of them dissimilarly.

Objective and subjective reasoning apply to different people in the society. Besides politics, religion raises many questions among populations. Faith is a personal decision since in the society atheists exist. They do not believe in any religion because they have personal ideologies against this concept. Certain individuals advocate for Protestantism while others purely focus on Catholicism. Eastern religions equally play a significant role in the society, especially Buddhism.

Some people question the ideologies or policies of certain religions. This happens when they want to join the sect, or when they want to criticize it. On the other hand, many people belong to no religion because after assessing most religions, they find atheism as the most appealing option. Religions have different traditions that their inventors formulate. Other people do not question religions since they uphold a subjective thought process (Ehrman et al. 22).

Most of these individuals embrace religions that their predecessors initiated. Others blindly follow religious ideologies because their societies support such religions. Today, countless religious beliefs exist and people follow the ones they find comfortable. From this perspective, objectivity and subjectivity strongly apply in religious settings. Objectivity has to exist because people have the freedom of worship. On the other hand, subjectivity prevails because conservative communities exist.

Experts equate objectivity to intelligence since people often strive to reach the highest level of intelligence that they cannot achieve. When an expert develops an idea, people will generate different opinions and fallacies to challenge such reasoning. People are naturally different and intelligence is inherent to an individual. This offers the ability to object or support certain ideologies in the society.

Ehrman, John, Hayden Peake, Martin Petersen, and Igor Lukes. “Studies in Intelligence.” Journal of the American Intelligence Professional 55.1 (2011): 1-50. Print.

Kahneman, Daniel. “Two Brains Running.” The New York Times 25 Nov. 2011: 12-17. Print.

Pillar, Paul R.. Chapter 29: The Perils of Politicization, UC Irvine: School of Social Sciences . N.p., 3 Mar. 2010. Web.

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Objective vs Subjective Writing: What’s the Difference?

• POSTED ON November 10, 2023
• by Marcjean Yutuc

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Even in the era marked by the emergence of AI writing assistants like ChatGPT and Bard, the act of writing retains its critical role as an indispensable human skill, crucial for nurturing creativity, critical thinking, and personal expression.

This significance extends into the realm of choosing between objective and subjective writing styles, which profoundly influences how messages are received and interpreted.

Whether you’re a student, journalist, or content creator, mastering these unique styles is crucial. Moreover, learning how to excel as a writer will undoubtedly provide a competitive edge.

In this blog, we will explore the nuances of objective and subjective writing, offering insights on how they can be artfully utilized to enhance your content. Additionally, we highlight a selection of online language courses designed to bolster your writing skills, ensuring your ability to communicate effectively in any context.

What Is Subjective Writing?

Subjective writing is the language of perspective that is influenced by personal feelings. It aims to let the listener or reader know how the writer or speaker feels, thinks, or believes. Because it is subjective, it focuses mainly on feelings, attitudes, impressions, values, thoughts, and beliefs. 

Subjective writing is not an accurate representation of what truly is, but rather an impression made by the speaker or writer. Therefore, it can be hard to prove the point or message of subjective writing. You may need to combine it with persuasive speech in order to convince your listener or reader to believe in your point of view.

Qualities of subjective writing

Subjective writing has one or more of the following tell-tale characteristics:

1. Contains personal language

With subjective writing, your reader will feel as if someone is personally speaking to them. You can find the best example of the use of personal language in love letters. The words “I,” “you,” we,” and ”us” are often peppered throughout each line.

2. Passes judgment

Describing things with the use of adjectives counts as passing judgment. Calling someone fat, skinny, sickly, or even beautiful is a form of judgment. Therefore, judgmental writings such as these are considered subjective writing.

3. Makes assumptions

Saying that your little sister hates Math because she always gets low grades in that subject is a form of assumption. While it may be true, there is no direct indicator that solidifies your claim. She may still love Math despite failing at it because it challenges her.

4. Emotive and dramatic

Another quality of subjective writing is its affinity to emotion. For example, people who are opposed to vaccinating children may say that children are highly vulnerable and fragile creatures who cannot tolerate foreign chemicals injected into their bodies. While scientific data show negligible risk to vaccinating, they subjectively believe that it is harmful.

5. Exaggerated

Because subjective writing only translates what the speaker or writer feels, it sometimes becomes exaggerated. What is mildly disturbing for other people may be wildly inappropriate for others.

6. Uses exclamation marks

Some subjective pieces make use of exclamation marks to convey strong emotions such as anger or joy.

7. Uses capitalization

Capitalized words are also a technique accepted in subjective and informal pieces of writing. You may find some capitalization in blogs or social media posts as an attempt to create emphasis on that word and what it is trying to convey.

Where you can find subjective writing

Subjective writing is not at all formal and may even seem inappropriate. However, it is totally acceptable and even expected to see subjective writing in these instances:

• Literary work such as poems and stories
• Personal journals
• Speeches during informal events
• Social media posts

Learn creative writing using subjective writing with the help of this creative writing course .

Practicing subjective writing skills has its own benefits. Here’s what Nanie Batac, a seasoned writer, has to share. 

Practicing subjective writing nurtures a unique personal voice and emotional expressiveness, fostering deeper connections with readers through relatable and engaging content. It encourages critical thinking and creative exploration, enabling writers to articulate their perspectives with clarity and conviction. This practice not only enhances storytelling but also strengthens the writer's ability to persuade and resonate with diverse audiences. Nanie Batac, Professional Writer

What Is Objective Writing?

Objective writing, by definition, is the direct opposite of subjective writing. You can say that it is devoid of any emotion, opinion, or assumption and makes very little use of adjectives unless they are supported by data.

Facts and figures speak for themselves in objective writing. This makes them more reliable, although they are not always the most compelling pieces.

Objective writing is impartial, fair, and accurate. You can’t find an inch of exaggeration with objective vs subjective writing, and so it is mostly saved for more formal communication. Everyday language is often not factual.

Qualities of objective writing

These are some of the things that you will notice in an objective piece or statement:

1. Clear topic statements

Objective writing likes to say things as they are. Therefore, you can expect there to be clear and concise topic statements with no partiality. Instead of saying things such as “you have so many wonderful varieties to choose from,” an objective approach would be to say, “there are a number of options available.”

2. Facts and evidence

One glaring thing you might notice in objective pieces is the presence of data and numbers. There are no accusatory statements in objective writing, but rather it lets the facts and evidence speak for their own.

3. Fair and accurate

Nothing can be more accurate than a number. One is one. There are no variations, deviations, or other versions of it. Since objective writing makes use of numbers, it is safe to say that it is accurate.

It is also fair because there is no judgment or opinion made. All sides of an issue have a chance to present their own facts, and there are no biases.

4. Non-Judgmental

While the subjective language may say, “You have too many bags!” objective language will simply state that “You have fifty bags.” As you can see, there is no trace of judgment on the second statement. It merely says how many bags you have. Whether or not you think it’s too many is entirely up to you.

5. Impersonal recommendations

You will often see recommendations in scientific studies and publications. These bodies of work thoroughly assess an issue with the use of data to come up with the recommendations that they publish at the end. 

For example, suppose the efficacy profile of a drug shows that it is 99 percent effective for treating migraine. In that case, the journal may recommend it for the use of treatment for migraine, given its data-supported efficacy.

Where you can find objective writing

You can find objective writing in the following:

• History books
• Scientific publications
• Encyclopedias

Even if you’re not a scientist or a doctor, you might still find objective writing useful. Academic writing, such as essays, favors the use of objective writing, even if it allows a bit of subjective expression. 

The difference between objective vs subjective writing is so stark that it is impossible to mistake one from the other. Just keep in mind that objective writing is more factual and subjective writing is more emotive and influenced by personal feelings or opinions.

Writing Courses You Should Take

Four writing styles for professional content writing.

This course teaches you the four basic writing styles: expository, narrative, descriptive, and persuasive. It also covers the five-sensory descriptions (visual, aural, gustatory, olfactory, and tactile) in descriptive content writing, and the three elements of persuasive content writing (ethos, pathos, and logos). The course is suitable for all skill levels and will help you improve your content writing and creative writing skills.

You should take this course if you want to:

• Improve your content writing skills
• Learn the four basic writing styles
• Understand the five-sensory descriptions in descriptive content writing
• Learn the three elements of persuasive content writing
• Improve your creative writing skills

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Creative Writing For Beginners: Unlock Your Creativity

This online course is designed for beginners who want to learn the fundamentals of creative writing. It will teach you how to develop characters, create compelling narratives, craft personal essays, and write engaging fiction. You will also learn about different forms of writing, such as short stories, poetry, and creative nonfiction. The course is taught by experienced writers who will share their tips and techniques to help you improve your writing skills.

• Learn the basics of creative writing
• Develop essential writing skills
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• Learn from experienced writers

Frequently Asked Questions 

Why is it important to distinguish between objective and subjective writing.

Distinguishing between objective and subjective writing is important because it helps readers understand the purpose and reliability of the information being presented. 

Objective writing is crucial when facts and an unbiased perspective are necessary, such as in scientific research or news reporting, to make informed decisions or understandings. 

Subjective writing, while offering depth and personal insight, may not always provide a complete or balanced view and can influence the reader’s perception through the author’s personal bias. Knowing the difference allows readers to critically assess the information’s credibility and how it fits into their own understanding or research.

Can a piece of writing be both objective and subjective?

Yes, a piece of writing can blend both objective and subjective elements. For example, an article may start with an objective overview of a topic, presenting facts and evidence, and then move into a subjective section where the author provides their personal opinion or analysis based on those facts. 

This approach allows the writer to present a well-rounded view by grounding their personal insights in objective reality. However, maintaining a clear distinction between the two within the piece is crucial for ensuring the reader can differentiate between factual information and the author’s personal perspective.

How does audience expectation influence the choice between objective and subjective writing?

Audience expectation plays a crucial role in determining whether objective or subjective writing is more appropriate. 

In contexts where the audience expects factual, unbiased information, such as academic research, news reporting, or technical documentation, objective writing is preferred. Conversely, in settings where personal insight, creativity, or opinion is valued, such as blogs, personal essays, or literary critiques, subjective writing is more suitable. 

Understanding the audience’s expectations helps the writer choose the right style to effectively communicate their message and meet the audience’s needs.

What are the challenges of objective writing?

One of the main challenges of objective writing is ensuring complete neutrality and avoiding any bias, which requires thorough research, fact-checking, and sometimes a detachment from personal beliefs. 

Writers must carefully select their words to avoid inadvertently implying opinions or judgments. Another challenge is presenting complex information in an accessible way without oversimplifying or distorting the facts. Objective writing demands a high level of rigor and discipline to accurately convey information without influencing the reader’s perception with personal bias.

Are there specific genres where subjective writing is more prevalent than objective writing?

Yes, there are specific genres where subjective writing is more prevalent. These include the following: 

• Personal blogs
• Autobiographies
• Opinion columns, and 
• Literary criticism

Subjective writing is also common in arts and entertainment reviews, such as books, movies, and music, where personal interpretation and emotional response are valued. 

These genres thrive on the unique perspectives and insights of the writer, making subjective writing not only appropriate but often the expected norm.

Skill Success Expert Insights on Objective vs Subjective Writing

Researchers at MIT have identified a trend where misinformation on Twitter travels more swiftly than factual information, primarily propelled by human activity rather than automated bots. 

Their findings indicate that tweets with inaccurate content are retweeted 70% more frequently than those with accurate information. 

BA Isla, a writer with over 15 years in the field, has noticed significant changes in the industry, especially an increasing lean towards subjective writing. She underscores that while the freedom to express personal views is crucial, it introduces unique challenges, particularly in the context of distinguishing between truth and falsehood in the digital age.

The rise of social media has provided a platform for individuals to openly share their thoughts. In this landscape, it's crucial to strike a balance between objective and subjective writing. Supporting opinions with data and facts is essential to prevent the spread of misinformation or exaggerated claims. Unfortunately, dramatic posts and articles often gain undue credibility. Now more than ever, it's imperative for responsible writers to step forward. BA Isla, Content Writer, Skill Success

Key Takeaways

Objective and subjective writing represent two distinct approaches to conveying information and expressing opinions. Objective writing focuses on presenting verifiable facts and unbiased perspectives, while subjective writing delves into the realm of personal experiences, emotions, and interpretations.

As writers, the key lies in recognizing the appropriate context for each style. When striving to inform and educate, objective writing is the ideal tool. When aiming to evoke emotions, inspire action, or share personal experiences, subjective writing takes center stage.

To embark on a journey of continuous learning and unlock your full writing potential, we invite you to subscribe to Skill Success All Access Pass . This pass grants you access to our entire library of courses, empowering you to master a wide range of writing techniques, from crafting captivating blog posts to penning impactful business proposals.

Ready to fully dive into your learning? Join All Access Pass and unlock our entire course library for only $15/month.

Click here to learn more

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Objective vs subjective writing: all you need to know.

In the realm of writing, there are two distinct styles that authors can employ - objective and subjective. These two styles differ in their approach and purpose, and understanding the difference between them is crucial for any writer looking to effectively convey their message. In this blog, we will delve into the definition of objective vs subjective writing, explore the differences between the two styles, examine when to use each style, weigh the pros and cons of objective and subjective writing, and provide tips for crafting both styles. By the end of this blog, you will have a comprehensive understanding of objective and subjective writing and be equipped to employ these styles in your own writing endeavours .

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The Definition of Objective vs Subjective

Objective writing is characterised by presenting information in a neutral and unbiased manner, devoid of personal opinions or emotions. The objective writer strives to present facts and evidence, allowing readers to form their own opinions based on the provided information.

Objective writing is often seen in news articles, scientific papers, and academic essays. In these forms of writing, the author's goal is to provide an accurate and balanced account of the subject matter. By presenting information objectively, the writer allows readers to make informed decisions and draw their own conclusions.

For example, in a news article about a recent political event, an objective writer would report the facts and provide statements from different perspectives. They would avoid injecting their personal opinions or biases, allowing readers to form their own judgments based on the presented information.

On the other hand, subjective writing reflects the author's personal opinions, thoughts, and emotions. It is inherently biased, as the writer uses their own perspective to shape the narrative and evoke specific feelings in the reader.

Subjective writing is commonly found in personal essays, memoirs, and editorials. In these forms of writing, the author's purpose is to express their unique viewpoint and share their personal experiences. By infusing their writing with subjectivity, the author aims to connect with readers on an emotional level and elicit a particular response.

For instance, in a personal essay about overcoming adversity, a subjective writer would narrate their own challenges and triumphs, sharing their emotional journey. They would express their personal opinions and reflections, aiming to inspire and resonate with readers who may have faced similar obstacles.

It is important to note that both objective and subjective writing have their place in different contexts. Objective writing is valued in fields where accuracy and impartiality are crucial, such as journalism and scientific research. On the other hand, subjective writing allows for personal expression and can be powerful in conveying emotions and connecting with readers on a deeper level.

What is the Difference Between Objective and Subjective Writing?

The key difference between objective and subjective writing lies in the level of personal bias and emotional involvement present in each style. Objective writing maintains a detached and impartial tone, while subjective writing embraces the author's perspective and emotions.

Objective writing often relies on factual evidence, logical reasoning, and expert opinions to present a balanced view of the topic. This style is commonly used in news reporting, scientific research papers, and textbooks.

For instance, in news reporting, objective writing ensures that journalists present the facts without personal opinions or emotions. They strive to provide an unbiased account of events, allowing readers to form their own opinions based on the information presented. Scientific research papers also employ objective writing to present findings and conclusions based on rigorous experimentation and analysis. By relying on evidence and logical reasoning, objective writing fosters credibility and trustworthiness.

On the other hand, subjective writing is frequently found in personal essays, memoirs, and creative writing pieces. It allows the writer to express themselves, share personal experiences, and engage the reader on a more emotional level.

Personal essays , for example, provide a platform for individuals to reflect on their own thoughts, feelings, and experiences. By incorporating personal anecdotes and reflections, subjective writing creates a connection between the author and the reader, evoking empathy and understanding. Memoirs, too, rely heavily on subjective writing, as they recount the author's life story and delve into their inner thoughts and emotions.

Moreover, subjective writing is often employed in creative writing pieces such as poetry and fiction. These genres allow authors to explore their imagination, create vivid worlds, and evoke various emotions in the reader. By infusing subjective elements into their writing, authors can transport readers into different realms, eliciting joy, sadness, or even fear.

Ultimately, the choice between objective and subjective writing depends on the purpose and context of the piece. While objective writing aims to provide an impartial view of a topic, subjective writing invites readers to experience the author's unique perspective and emotions. Both styles have their merits and can be used effectively to convey information or evoke a particular response from the reader.

Achieving a Balance between the Two Writing Styles

While objective and subjective writing may seem like opposing forces, achieving a balance between the two can lead to powerful and engaging writing. Incorporating elements of both styles can help captivate the reader while maintaining credibility and reliability.

Objective writing, often associated with news articles or scientific papers, focuses on presenting information in a neutral and unbiased manner. It relies on facts, evidence, and logical reasoning to convey a message. However, purely objective writing can sometimes feel dry and detached, lacking the emotional connection that subjective writing can provide.

On the other hand, subjective writing allows the writer to express personal opinions, emotions, and experiences. It adds a human touch to the text, making it relatable and engaging. Subjective writing often includes personal anecdotes, descriptive language, and expressive metaphors that can evoke powerful emotions in the reader.

By grounding subjective writing in objective facts and supplementing objective writing with personal anecdotes or examples, writers can strike a balance that informs and engages the reader in a compelling manner. For example, when discussing a scientific study, an objective writer can introduce the topic with a concise overview of the research methodology and results. Then, they can incorporate subjective elements by sharing their personal thoughts on the implications of the study or how it relates to their own experiences.

Similarly, when writing a personal essay or opinion piece, a writer can start by sharing a personal story or experience that hooks the reader's attention. They can then support their subjective perspective with objective evidence, such as statistics or expert opinions, to strengthen their argument and enhance their credibility.

Striking a balance between objective and subjective writing is not only about mixing the two styles but also about knowing when and how to use them effectively. It requires careful consideration of the target audience, the purpose of the writing, and the desired impact on the reader. By skillfully blending objective and subjective elements, writers can create a harmonious and persuasive piece of writing that resonates with their readers.

In conclusion, achieving a balance between objective and subjective writing is a skill that can greatly enhance the effectiveness of any piece of writing. By incorporating elements of both styles, writers can inform, engage, and connect with their readers on a deeper level. So, whether you are writing a news article, a research paper, or a personal essay, remember to find the right balance between objectivity and subjectivity to create a compelling and impactful piece of writing.

When to Use Objective Writing

Objective writing is best suited for situations where presenting facts, evidence, and logical arguments is crucial. It is commonly used in academic writing, scientific research, and news reporting. Objectivity ensures that the information presented is reliable, trustworthy, and free from personal bias.

When to Use Subjective Writing

Subjective writing shines when the writer wants to communicate their personal experiences, emotions, and opinions. It adds depth and authenticity to storytelling , making it an ideal choice for personal essays, memoirs, and creative writing pieces where the author's unique perspective is the focal point.

Pros and Cons of Objective Writing

Objective writing has several advantages. It allows readers to come to their own conclusions based on the presented information, promoting critical thinking. Additionally, it lends credibility to the writer and their work by demonstrating a commitment to accuracy and research. However, objective writing can sometimes be perceived as dry or lacking emotional impact, as it focuses solely on presenting facts and evidence.

Pros and Cons of Subjective Writing

Subjective writing, with its emphasis on personal expression and emotional appeal, has the ability to deeply resonate with readers. It allows writers to connect on a more intimate level, fostering empathy and understanding. However, subjective writing is more prone to criticism regarding its objectivity and potential bias.

Tips for Crafting Objective Writing

To craft effective objective writing, it is important to prioritise factual accuracy and substantiate claims with reliable sources. Organise your thoughts in a logical manner, providing clear evidence and supporting arguments. Use concise and straightforward language to ensure clear communication.

Tips for Crafting Subjective Writing

When crafting subjective writing, embrace your unique perspective and use vivid language to evoke emotions in your reader. Share personal anecdotes and experiences that help illustrate your point of view. However, remember to strike a balance between personal expression and maintaining coherence in your writing.

Objective vs Subjective in Writing

Objective and subjective writing styles can be employed in various genres and forms of writing. While objective writing is often associated with academic and professional contexts, subjective writing finds its place in personal narratives, creative endeavours, and opinion pieces. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each style, writers can effectively tailor their approach to suit the desired outcome.

Other Uses of Objective vs Subjective

While objective and subjective writing styles are commonly discussed in the context of written communication, it is important to note that these styles extend beyond writing alone. Objective and subjective perspectives can influence various aspects of life, decision-making, and even interpersonal relationships. Understanding and recognizing the differences between objective and subjective viewpoints can lead to more effective communication overall.

Objective and Subjective Writing Are Both Valuable

Whether you are presenting research findings, sharing personal experiences, or engaging readers with creative storytelling, both objective and subjective writing have their place and value. The ability to employ these two writing styles selectively allows for versatile and impactful communication. Remember, the key lies in understanding the context, purpose, and audience of your writing.

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Module 3: Definition Essay

How to write a definition essay.

A definition essay can be deceivingly difficult to write. This type of paper requires you to write a personal yet academic definition of one specific word. The definition must be thorough and lengthy. It is essential that you choose a word that will give you plenty to write about, and there are a few standard tactics you can use to elaborate on the term. Here are a few guidelines to keep in mind when writing a definition essay.

Part 1 of 3: Choosing the Right Word

1: choose an abstract word with a complex meaning. [1].

A simple word that refers to a concrete word will not give you much to write about, but a complex word that refers to an abstract concept provides more material to explore.

• Typically, nouns that refer to a person, place, or thing are too simple for a definition essay. Nouns that refer to an idea work better, however, as do most adjectives.
• For example, the word “house” is fairly simple and an essay written around it may be dull. By switching to something slightly more abstract like “home,” however, you can play around with the definition more. A “home” is a concept, and there are many elements involved in the creation of a “home.” In comparison, a “house” is merely a structure.

2: Make sure that the word is disputable.

Aside from being complex, the word should also refer to something that can mean different things to different people.

• A definition essay is somewhat subjective by nature since it requires you to analyze and define a word from your own perspective. If the answer you come up with after analyzing a word is the same answer anyone else would come up with, your essay may appear to lack depth.

3: Choose a word you have some familiarity with.

Dictionary definitions can only tell you so much. Since you need to elaborate on the word you choose to define, you will need to have your own base of knowledge or experience with the concept you choose.

• For instance, if you have never heard the term “pedantic,” your understanding of the word will be limited. You can introduce yourself to the word for your essay, but without previous understanding of the concept, you will not know if the definition you describe is truly fitting.

4: Read the dictionary definition.

While you will not be relying completely on the dictionary definition for your essay, familiarizing yourself with the official definition will allow you to compare your own understanding of the concept with the simplest, most academic explanation of it.

• As an example, one definition of “friend” is “a person attached to another by feelings of affection or personal regard.” [2] Your own ideas or beliefs about what a “friend” really is likely include much more information, but this basic definition can present you with a good starting point in forming your own.

5:  Research the word’s origins.

Look up your chosen word in the Oxford English Dictionary or in another etymology dictionary. [3]

• These sources can tell you the history behind a word, which can provide further insight on a general definition as well as information about how a word came to mean what it means today.

Part 2 of 3: Potential Elements of an Effective Definition

1: write an analysis. [4].

Separate a word into various parts. Analyze and define each part in its own paragraph.

• You can separate “return” into “re-” and “turn.” The word “friendship” can be separated into “friend” and “ship.”
• In order to analyze each portion of a word, you will still need to use additional defining tactics like negation and classification.
• Note that this tactic only works for words that contain multiple parts. The word “love,” for instance, cannot be broken down any further. If defining “platonic love,” though, you could define both “platonic” and “love” separately within your essay.

2:  Classify the term.

Specify what classes and parts of speech a word belongs to according to a standard dictionary definition.

• While this information is very basic and dry, it can provide helpful context about the way that a given word is used.

3: Compare an unfamiliar term to something familiar.

An unfamiliar or uncommon concept can be explained using concepts that are more accessible to the average person.

• Many people have never heard of the term “confrere,” for instance. One basic definition is “a fellow member of a profession, fraternity, etc.” As such, you could compare “confrere” with “colleague,” which is a similar yet more familiar concept. [5]

4:  Provide traditional details about the term.

Explain any physical characteristics or traditional thoughts used to describe your term of choice.

• The term “home” is often visualized physically as a house or apartment. In more abstract terms, “home” is traditionally thought to be a warm, cozy, and safe environment. You can include all of these features in a definition essay on “home.”

5: Use examples to illustrate the meaning.

People often relate to stories and vivid images, so using a fitting story or image that relates to the term can be used in clarifying an abstract, formless concept.

• In a definition essay about “kindness,” for example, you could write about an act of kindness you recently witnessed. Someone who mows the lawn of an elderly neighbor is a valid example, just as someone who gave you an encouraging word when you were feeling down might be.

6: Use negation to explain what the term does not mean.

If a term is often misused or misunderstood, mentioning what it is not is an effective way to bring the concept into focus.

• A common example would be the term “courage.” The term is often associated with a lack of fear, but many will argue that “courage” is more accurately described as acting in spite of fear.

7: Provide background information.

This is when your research about the etymology of a word will come in handy. Explain where the term originated and how it came to mean what it currently means.

Part 3 of 3: Definition Essay Structure

1: introduce the standard definition..

You need to clearly state what your word is along with its traditional or dictionary definition in your introductory paragraph.

• By opening with the dictionary definition of your term, you create context and a basic level of knowledge about the word. This will allow you to introduce and elaborate on your own definition.
• This is especially significant when the traditional definition of your term varies from your own definition in notable ways.

2: Define the term in your own words in your thesis.

Your actual thesis statement should define the term in your own words.

• Keep the definition in your thesis brief and basic. You will elaborate on it more in the body of your paper.
• Avoid using passive phrases involving the word “is” when defining your term. The phrases “is where” and “is when” are especially clunky. [6]
• Do not repeat part of the defined term in your definition.

3:  Separate different parts of the definition into separate paragraphs.

Each tactic or method used to define your term should be explored in a separate paragraph.

• Note that you do not need to use all the possible methods of defining a term in your essay. You should use a variety of different methods in order to create a full, well-rounded picture of the term, but some tactics will work great with some terms but not with others.

4: Conclude with a summary of your main points.

Briefly summarize your main points around the start of your concluding paragraph.

• This summary does not need to be elaborate. Usually, looking at the topic sentence of each body paragraph is a good way to form a simple list of your main points.
• You can also draw the essay to a close by referring to phrases or images evoked in your introduction.

5: Mention how the definition has affected you, if desired.

If the term you define plays a part in your own life and experiences, your final concluding remarks are a good place to briefly mention the role it plays.

• Relate your experience with the term to the definition you created for it in your thesis. Avoid sharing experiences that relate to the term but contradict everything you wrote in your essay.

Sources and Citations

• http://www.roanestate.edu/owl/Definition.html
• http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/friend?s=t
• http://www.etymonline.com/
• http://leo.stcloudstate.edu/acadwrite/definition.html
• http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/confrere?s=t
• http://grammar.ccc.commnet.edu/grammar/composition/definition.htm
• How to Write a Definition Essay. Provided by : WikiHow. Located at : http://www.wikihow.com/Write-a-Definition-Essay . License : CC BY-NC-SA: Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike

• Cambridge Dictionary +Plus

Definition of subjective – Learner’s Dictionary

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• subjectively
• subjectivity

(Definition of subjective from the Cambridge Learner's Dictionary © Cambridge University Press)

Translations of subjective

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a group of four people who play musical instruments or sing as a group

Alike and analogous (Talking about similarities, Part 1)

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